Description

The Ordinary Retinol 1% in Squalane Review: My Experience Using It Daily

Packaging & Application

The first thing I noticed about this high-strength retinol serum was its minimalistic yet functional packaging. The dropper bottle is compact and easy to handle, making it simple to dispense the exact amount of product needed. A few drops go a long way, and I appreciate the hygienic application method. It’s perfect for someone like me who hates dipping fingers into jars. However, I did notice that the dropper can sometimes get a little messy if not handled carefully.

Fragrance & Sensitivity

This retinol serum is fragrance-free, which I absolutely love. My skin tends to react poorly to heavily scented products, so this aspect was a blessing. I experienced no burning or stinging during application, and the product felt incredibly gentle for something containing 1% retinol. That said, I did notice a slight tingling sensation on the first few uses, which I believe is typical for retinol products. If you’re new to retinol, it’s best to ease into it to avoid over-sensitizing your skin.

Absorption & Texture

The texture is silky and lightweight but leaves an oily finish due to the squalane base. While the product absorbs quickly, there’s still a residual sheen that may not sit well with those who dislike the feeling of oil on their skin. For me, it wasn’t a dealbreaker since I use it exclusively at night. However, if you have oily skin like my cousin, you might find it a bit too heavy.

Skin Type Compatibility

I have combination skin, and this serum worked beautifully for me. It didn’t exacerbate my oily T-zone or dry out my cheeks, thanks to the hydrating properties of squalane. My sister, who has dry skin, also gave it a try and found it soothing. However, my coworker with sensitive skin mentioned that it caused some redness initially. If you have very sensitive skin, patch testing is crucial before committing to regular use.

Ingredients & Formula

This serum combines 1% retinol with squalane, a hydrating ingredient that offsets the potential drying effects of retinol. The inclusion of squalane is a game-changer, as it allows the product to deliver potent anti-aging benefits without leaving your skin feeling like the Sahara Desert. Retinol is the star of the show here, targeting fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin texture. I also noticed a brighter and smoother appearance after consistent use for about three weeks.

Effectiveness

The results speak for themselves. The fine lines around my eyes and mouth have softened, and my overall skin tone looks more even. My skin feels firmer and smoother to the touch, and the dullness I used to complain about is now a thing of the past. This serum truly delivers on its promises of anti-aging and skin-smoothing benefits. Even my mom, who has been skeptical of skincare products, noticed the change in my skin and decided to give it a try herself.

Advantages

• Hydrating formula with squalane prevents dryness.
• Potent retinol concentration visibly reduces fine lines and wrinkles.
• Improves skin texture and tone with consistent use.
• Fragrance-free and gentle for most skin types.
• Affordable compared to similar high-strength retinol products.

Areas for Improvement

• Oily finish may not suit all skin types, especially oily skin.
• Requires careful introduction to avoid irritation for sensitive skin.
• Dropper mechanism can get slightly messy.
• Needs consistent use over weeks to see significant results.

Product Rivals

When comparing this product to alternatives like Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair or Paula’s Choice Retinol Serum, The Ordinary stands out for its affordability. While Neutrogena’s retinol products are also effective, they often come with added fragrance, which can be a turn-off for some. On the other hand, Paula’s Choice Retinol Serum offers a more luxe experience with added peptides but at a significantly higher price point. The Ordinary Retinol 1% in Squalane strikes a balance between potency and price, making it an excellent choice for someone seeking effective yet budget-friendly anti-aging skincare.

Value for Money

This serum provides excellent value for its price. The 1% retinol concentration is potent enough to deliver visible results, and the addition of squalane ensures your skin stays hydrated. While it might not offer the bells and whistles of luxury brands, it gets the job done without burning a hole in your wallet. For anyone serious about anti-aging skincare, this product is worth every penny.

Additional information